This book seeks to illuminate the true complexity of obesity. It
aims to equip readers—be they healthcare professionals, policy
architects, or individuals and families, with a multidimensional
understanding that rises above myths and misconceptions. Here,
You will journey from the depths of cellular machinery, where our
genes and hormones silently shape destinies, to the sweeping
influences of globalisation, urban design, and food systems that
define our everyday realities.
Obesity has become the defining public health crisis of our era.
With more than a billion people now living with the condition
worldwide, it stands as a complex, costly, and deeply
misunderstood global challenge. Obesity - The Global Epidemic
moves beyond the simplistic mantra of "eat less, move more" to
present a comprehensive, 360-degree analysis of this modern
epidemic.
This meticulously researched book dismantles the obesity
narrative, guiding readers from the microscopic world of our genes
and hormones to the macroscopic forces of global economics and
public policy. You will discover:
• The Deep Biology of Weight: A clear explanation of the
genetic and epigenetic factors that create a biological
blueprint for obesity, and how our ancient survival
Mechanisms are mismatched with the modern world.
• A Web of Modern Causes: An in-depth exploration of
the environmental, psychological, and lifestyle drivers of
weight gain—from the impact of chronic stress and sleep
deprivation to the design of our cities and the marketing of
ultra-processed foods.
• The Full Spectrum of Consequences: A sobering look
at the vast catalogue of physical diseases linked to obesity,
alongside a compassionate investigation into the hidden,
devastating toll of weight stigma and its impact on mental health.
• A Roadmap to Solutions: A detailed analysis of the complete range of management strategies, from
foundational lifestyle and behavioural therapies to the
revolutionary new landscape of anti-obesity medications
and the life-changing potential of metabolic surgery.
• Specialised Investigations: Focused chapters on critical,
often-overlooked topics, including the unique challenges
of postpartum weight retention and the high-risk world of
weight-control drugs and anabolic steroids in fitness
culture.
Obesity - The Global Epidemic is an essential resource for anyone
seeking to understand the science, psychology, and societal realities
behind the headlines. It is a crucial guide for healthcare
professionals, a call to action for policymakers, and an empowering
source of knowledge for individuals and families navigating the
complexities of weight and health in the 21st century.